MONMOUTH, ILLINOIS (July 1, 2025) — Building on its 172-year legacy of academic excellence, Monmouth College is taking a bold step forward in its evolution as a strong, vibrant liberal-arts institution. In a strategic move to expand academic opportunities, realign with student interests, and position the college for long-term growth, Monmouth proudly announces the creation of six new academic Schools offering a robust and holistic academic portfolio.
The new academic structure reflects the college's commitment to high-quality liberal-arts education while enhancing career pathways and learning experiences for students. The six newly-established schools are:
School of Business
School of Communication and Creative and Performing Arts
School of Education and Human Development
School of Engineering, Sciences and Innovation
School of Health Sciences and Natural Sciences
School of Humanities and Civic Engagement
"These schools allow us to sharpen our focus and better serve the needs of students now and in the future," said Vice President of Academic Affairs Mark Willhardt. "We are building on our strengths while creating new, dynamic academic opportunities — much like we have recently with programs in nursing, marketing, and engineering."
The new academic schools will provide students with greater opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, experiential learning, and real-world application, all while preserving the personalized, student-centered education for which Monmouth College is known.
This evolution is part of a broader strategic direction centered on growth, vibrancy, and high-quality academic offerings.
Decisions were based on recommendations made by the Academic Program Prioritization Task Force, which reflected an analysis of academic programs to grow, maintain, phase out, or consider adding to the Monmouth portfolio.
From this extensive process, the college will phase out academic programs with low enrollment and/or low student demand in order to reinvest in current and potentially new areas, ensuring that Monmouth College continues to thrive as a relevant, responsive institution that serves the entire college community.
"With this reimagined structure, we're positioning Monmouth College not just for sustainability, but for meaningful growth and continued relevance in a fast-changing world," said President Patricia Draves. "It's a powerful reflection of our enduring liberal-arts mission, preparing students to lead lives of purpose, service, and success. These updates represent the next step in building a Monmouth College education that is as distinctive, dynamic and driven as the students we serve."
For more information about Monmouth College's academic vision and new schools, visit monmouthcollege.edu/academics/schools/.
